Pathways is creating innovative programs to support at-risk Jewish teens and youth — amplifying their voices and safeguarding their well-being.

When religious young people begin to question whether their values align with their parents, many feel silenced. Some are shamed. Others face outright rejection.  When family relationships fracture, abuse is often hidden because advocates fear children will be taken from the community. We deliver programs that are sensitive towards Jewish culture and faith, whilst also focusing on children's rights.

 

While, our Teen Pathfinder Programs cater for young people from religious communities, our Youth Crisis Housing Programs support children from across the entire Jewish community who are not safe living with their families. All our programs are overseen by our dedicated Child Safety Committee.

 

Read the findings of the first independent Needs Analysis Study into Jewish youth homelessness and mental health in Victoria.  Report summary HERE

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Youth Crisis Housing - Orly ('My Light') Programs​​

Pathways Melbourne, in partnership with the Lighthouse Foundation, has launched new crisis support and holistic care programs to prevent homelessness among Jewish youth from all parts of the community, whilst respecting and protecting their Jewish identity and connection. 

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Orly Foster-Kinship Care (age 0+) — Jewish Families Opening Their Homes
Trained and supported by Lighthouse, Jewish community carers will provide safe, nurturing homes for vulnerable Jewish youth who cannot live safely with their own families. Pathways will ensure cultural and religious guidance through the Orly Cultural Leadership Council, comprised of carefully selected Jewish community ambassadors.

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Orly House (age 16+) — A Dedicated Jewish Safe House 

LAUNCHING SOON!

Run in partnership with Lighthouse, Orly House offers a warm, secure home for vulnerable Jewish young people who cannot live safely with their families. Orly House has 24/7 live-in care and a dedicated Jewish Therapeutic Case Manager to support healing from trauma and the development of essential life skills. Our volunteer-led, Orly House Community Committee, will bring Jewish connection, enriching cultural activities, and a family-like sense of belonging.

 

Teen Pathfinder Programs (age 14 - 18)

LAUNCHING IN EARLY 2026 

Co-created with young Jewish community representatives, our Teen Pathfinder Programs puts the well-being of young Jewish people at its heart. Designed for those from religious families experiencing conflict over beliefs, values, or lifestyle, it offers a safe, inclusive space to explore identity, share experiences, and connect with peers. Led by experienced psychologists and family therapists, these programs foster belonging, reduce isolation, and build confidence, communication skills, and resilience in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

 

Teen Pathfinder Programs includes:
- Teen Life Skills Workshops

- Teen Peer Support Group

- Teen PATH 4 LIFE | Mentor Program

 

​​How you can help protect vulnerable Jewish youth:​​​​​​​​​​​​

To find out more contact our Youth & Family Programs Manager, Dassi Erlich HERE